Another RPI player leaves: Zalewski signs with Canucks

Two days after junior forward Ryan Haggerty to the New York Rangers, another RPI player is headed to the pros.

Sophomore forward Mike Zalewski signed a contract with the Vancouver Canucks on Friday.

"It is a bittersweet time for me and my family. Being at RPI the last two years has been a terrific experience in which I have developed a great deal as a player, in particular as a 'power forward,'" Zalewski said in a statement. "I have my coaches and teammates to thank for helping me grow into the player I am today. I am very excited for this opportunity with such a first-class organization like Vancouver. It has been a lifelong dream of mine to play in the NHL and the Canucks are providing that chance."

Zalewski had nine goals and 17 assists in 35 games this season. He scored the game-winning goal against Union in the Mayor's Cup game Jan. 25.

Last season, Zalewski had 12 goals and nine assists in 36 games.

"We are thrilled to see Mike earn his lifelong dream of signing an NHL contract going directly from RPI to the NHL," RPI head coach Seth Appert said. "His work ethic has helped him develop into a power forward in his two years at RPI. He is a great teammate and will be missed, but we are excited to watch him with the Vancouver Canucks."

There were two other signings, both seniors. Forward Brock Higgs signed an amateur tryout contract with the AHL's Worcester Sharks. Defenseman Guy Leboeuf signed an ATO with the AHL's Bridgeport Sound Tigers.